Get ready for the most delicious and flavour-packed Vietnamese Pork Chops recipe! Not to mention, it's super easy to make once you have all of these ingredients on hand. 
This Vietnamese Pork Chops (Sườn Nướng) recipe is holds near and dear to my heart. These mouthwatering pork chops are more than just a dish; they're a connection to my childhood, a piece of my family's story, and a symphony of flavours that dance on your taste buds.
When I close my eyes and think back to my childhood, I can almost smell the enticing aroma of marinated pork sizzling on the grill during family backyard parties. It's a memory that transports me to quality time spent with loved ones, gathered around a table laden with irresistible Vietnamese delights. And at the center of it all, these grilled pork chops shine like culinary stars.
Now, let's talk about the heart of this recipe: my mom's cherished Vietnamese lemongrass marinade. This magical elixir of flavours has an almost legendary status in our family. It's more than just a blend of ingredients; it's a testament to the love and care that goes into each and every dish in Vietnamese cuisine. The fragrant lemongrass, the depth of fish sauce, the delicate balance of sweetness and umami – it's a harmony that never fails to impress.
Jumping into the Recipe
Now that we've traveled down memory lane, it's time to roll up those sleeves and create your very own delicious story with these Vietnamese pork chops. Here's the recipe that's been passed down in my family, tweaked to perfection over the years. The ingredients are simple, but when combined, they craft a tantalizing, mouth-watering masterpiece.
Marinade for Grilling:
- 1 kg pork shoulder (Your go-to for grilling)
- 4 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tsp onion powder
- 2 tbsp lemongrass (Options: frozen, fresh, or paste)
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 1/2 tbsp fish sauce
- 2 tsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1/2 tsp cayenne powder
- 1 tbsp ground coriander
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp chicken bouillon
- 1 tbsp vodka (Alternatives: rum or any cooking wine)
Hints of Sweet & Spicy:
- Honey: Brings the right amount of sweetness.
- Paprika & Cayenne: That much-needed spicy kick.
The Flavour Boosts:
- Ground Coriander: It’s about the finer details.
- Salt: Balances out the flavors.
- Chicken Bouillon: That hidden depth of umami.
- Vodka: A splash to elevate the marinade. But, switch it up with rum or wine if you fancy.
Cooking Method:
- Ensure your pork shoulder pieces are well-coated with the marinade mixture.
- Set them to rest, allowing the flavours to meld.
- Once marinated over night, get your grill flaming hot.
- Grill each side, ensuring they’re beautifully charred and cooked through.
Dipping Fish Sauce (Nước Mắm Chấm)
A tangy, savoury, and spicy dip that is a staple in Vietnamese cuisine. It pairs beautifully with a variety of dishes, adding depth and zest to every bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 cup water
- 1/2 cup sugar
- 1/2 cup lime juice or vinegar
- 1/4 cup fish sauce
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1-2 Thai chili peppers (adjust according to your spice tolerance 🥵)
Plating:
- Base: Begin with a generous serving of rice on a plate.
- Veggies: Place slices of cucumber and tomatoes alongside the rice.
- Pickles: Add some tangy pickled carrots for a crunchy bite.
- Protein: Add you pork chop and top off with a perfectly fried egg.
- Sauce: Drizzle or serve a generous amount of dipping fish sauce on the side!
- Finishing Touch: drizzle scallion oil on top (highly recommended – and if you need a recipe for scallion oil, just ask!).
Serve it up and let the scents and sizzles transport you back to those cherished memories. These chops are not just about filling the belly but also about warming the heart. So here's to recreating old memories and making new ones. Enjoy every bite, every moment! YOMMM 🍖🔥